COLUMBUS — The month of May marks the beginning of riding season for many motorcyclists in Ohio. It is also National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month – a time to remind all drivers to share the road with motorcycles and look twice for riders on the highway and at intersections.
The Ohio Department of Public Safety and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources have joined forces this year to promote motorcycle safety and beauty of Ohio that can be seen on a motorcycle. Riders are encouraged to discover lake views, explore forested trails, or travel the Appalachian foothills all while getting away from heavily congested traffic areas.
“Motorcycles are among the most vulnerable vehicles on our roads,” said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson. “Every day, riders are exposed to road hazards, weather conditions, and the mistakes of other drivers. With less visibility and stability, even a minor crash can have devastating consequences.”
In 2024, 213 Ohioans were killed in motorcycle-related crashes, and 81% of those fatalities involved a rider who was untrained. Other motorcycle safety statistics include:
- 78% of all motorcycle crashes occurred between May 1 and Oct. 31.
- 29% of riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, compared to 24% of passenger car drivers.
- 58% of all fatal motorcycle crashes last year involved alcohol or drugs.
According to Motorcycle Ohio, a division of the Ohio Traffic Safety Office, there are over half a million registered motorcycles on our roadways, making Ohio one of the top five states in the U.S. for total ridership. Ohio’s state parks offer a variety of accommodations for motorcycle riders, making them a great destination for scenic rides and outdoor adventures.
“Ohio is full of exciting places to explore and boasts several scenic routes and natural spaces, which many enjoy while on a motorcycle,” said Mary Mertz, Director of the Department of Natural Resources. “Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area and Jesse Owens State Park are stops riders can take while riding the Triple Nickel route, there is Hocking Hills Scenic Byway in southeastern Ohio, and so much more. We invite riders to enjoy the journey across our state to see the beauty of nature in our state parks and beyond.”
To help both new and experienced riders understand the laws and enhance their safe riding skills, Motorcycle Ohio offers affordable, effective training programs at just $75 per course. Students who pass the skills evaluation at the end of the course will be issued a certificate which can be used to waive the motorcycle skills test at the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and receive their motorcycle endorsement.
For more information on Ohio’s courses or to nominate a rider who was “Saved by The Helmet,” please contact the Motorcycle Ohio office at 1-800-837-4337 or visit their website at www.Motorcycle.Ohio.gov.